Fishing guidelines during COVID-19 (updated Sep 24)

Although State beaches are closed for the time being, fishing is still allowed subject to the following limitations*:

  • You may cross a state beach in order to get to the ocean, but you must maintain physical distancing requirements.
  • You may fish in state waters or on state land, but groups of two or more persons are only allowed if everyone in the group is in the same family and lives at the same address. On O‘ahu, groups may not exceed five people.

The City and County of Honolulu has the following additional restrictions that apply to O‘ahu only**:

  • City parks, beaches, trails will be expanded for use by up to five persons for any lawful activity (e.g., exercise, reading, sunbathing, picnics, etc.).
  • A permit will be required from the City Department of Parks and Recreation to use any canopy-type structure in City parks.

Also, please keep these guidelines in mind:

  • Follow all current regulations with regard to seasons, minimum sizes, gear restrictions, area closures, etc.
  • Maintain social distancing from other fishers. A good rule of thumb outdoors is to stay as far away from others as if you were trying to avoid cigarette smoke from them.
  • Take only what you need from the sea.
  • Avoid touching public surfaces such as benches, railings, or water fountains.
  • Wash your hands thoroughly before and after fishing, and after touching any public surface.

If fishing from a boat, remember that:

  • No more than two people are allowed on any boat in state waters unless they are part of a single residential or family unit sharing the same address.
  • Both people on the boat are required to maintain physical distancing of six feet from one another, as is reasonably possible.
  • The two people per boat restriction does not apply to commercial fishing activities, provided that all people onboard have valid Commercial Marine Fishing Licenses.
  • All boats are required to stay 20 feet from one another.

DLNR also asks that you please try to fish in or near your own ahupua‘a of residence.

Disclaimer: These guidelines should not be considered legal advice. For questions regarding interpretation or enforcement of the orders, please email [email protected]

The following links may be helpful.
* Governor’s Eighth Supplementary Emergency Proclamation, May 18, 2020.
** Honolulu Mayor’s COVID-19 Recovery Framework, Sep 24, 2020.

Updated September 24, 2020